FE Exam Allowed Calculators

Your definitive resource for understanding calculator policies on the FE Exam.

FE Exam Calculator Compliance Checker

Approved Calculator Models (Examples)

Brand	Model	Type	Notes
Texas Instruments	TI-30X IIS	Scientific	Widely approved, standard scientific functions.
Texas Instruments	TI-30X Pro MultiView	Scientific	Approved; features multi-line display.
Casio	fx-115 ES PLUS	Scientific	Very popular, approved for its advanced scientific functions.
Casio	Prizm fx-CG50	Graphing	NOT ALLOWED - This is a graphing calculator.
Sharp	EL-W516TBSL	Scientific	Approved scientific calculator.
Hewlett Packard	HP 35s	Scientific / Programmable	Approved; handles basic programming, but not considered advanced.

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Navigating the requirements for the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam can be daunting, especially concerning permitted equipment like calculators. NCEES (National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying) has specific policies regarding approved calculators to ensure fairness and exam integrity. Understanding which calculators are allowed and which are prohibited is crucial for effective exam preparation. This guide aims to clarify the NCEES calculator policy and provide a tool to help you determine if your chosen calculator meets the criteria.

What are FE Exam Allowed Calculators?

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FE Exam Allowed Calculators refer to the specific models of electronic calculating devices that NCEES permits examinees to bring into the testing center for the FE exam. These calculators are vetted to ensure they possess only the functionalities deemed necessary for engineering fundamentals and do not offer features that could provide an unfair advantage, such as advanced computing, programming capabilities beyond basic operations, or communication features.

Who Should Use This Guide?

• Students preparing for the FE Mechanical, FE Civil, FE Electrical, or any other FE discipline-specific exam.
• Engineers seeking to understand the latest NCEES calculator policy.
• Anyone concerned about bringing a non-compliant calculator to the exam and facing potential disqualification.

Common Misconceptions about FE Exam Calculators

• "My calculator is basic, so it must be allowed." Not always. Even basic models might have features like graphing or extensive programmability that are disallowed.
• "If it's not a graphing calculator, it's fine." While not graphing is a key criterion, other features like QWERTY keyboards or data storage are also prohibited.
• "NCEES approves specific models by name." Yes, NCEES maintains a list of approved models, but it's essential to check your specific model against the *features* NCEES restricts, as the list might not be exhaustive or up-to-the-minute for every single model variation.
• "Online calculators or phone apps are okay." Absolutely not. Only approved physical calculators are permitted. Electronic devices with text, internet access, or communication capabilities are strictly forbidden.

FE Exam Calculator Policy: Formula and Mathematical Explanation

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NCEES doesn't provide a single mathematical formula to calculate calculator compliance. Instead, compliance is determined by a set of exclusionary criteria based on calculator features. A calculator is permitted if it meets all the following negative conditions:

A calculator is *ALLOWED* if it satisfies:

• NOT a graphing calculator.
• NOT a calculator with a QWERTY keyboard.
• NOT a calculator with data storage, memory, or communication capabilities (e.g., USB, infrared, wireless).
• NOT a calculator powered by an AC adapter or having a card slot.
• NOT a programmable calculator with advanced features (beyond basic standard mathematical functions).

Essentially, the NCEES policy defines what is *NOT* allowed, implying that any calculator that avoids these prohibited features is generally acceptable, provided it's not a graphing model.

Variable Explanations

Calculator Feature Variables

Variable	Meaning	Unit / Type	Prohibited Range / Status
Graphing Capability	Ability to plot functions and create graphs.	Boolean (Yes/No)	Yes
QWERTY Keyboard	Presence of a keyboard layout similar to a standard computer keyboard.	Boolean (Yes/No)	Yes
Data Storage/Communication	Ability to store text, programs, data, or communicate with other devices.	Boolean (Yes/No)	Yes
Power/Card Slot	Use of AC power adapter or memory card expansion slots.	Boolean (Yes/No)	Yes
Programmability	Ability to write and execute custom programs beyond standard operations.	Boolean (Yes/No)	Yes (for advanced programmability)
Allowed Functions	Standard mathematical, scientific, statistical, and engineering functions.	Functionality Set	Must be limited to these

Practical Examples: Determining Calculator Compliance

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Let's look at some real-world scenarios using our calculator checker.

Example 1: The Common TI-30X IIS

• Calculator Model: TI-30X IIS
• Graphing: No
• QWERTY Keyboard: No
• Data Storage/Communication: No
• Power/Card Slot: No
• Programmable: No (basic function recalls only)

Result: Likely Allowed. This is a standard scientific calculator that meets all NCEES criteria for allowed calculators. It's widely used and approved.

Example 2: The Popular Casio fx-115 ES PLUS

• Calculator Model: Casio fx-115 ES PLUS
• Graphing: No
• QWERTY Keyboard: No
• Data Storage/Communication: No
• Power/Card Slot: No
• Programmable: No (standard math/science functions)

Result: Likely Allowed. Another extremely popular choice among engineering students, this model is approved because it functions as a powerful scientific calculator without prohibited features.

Example 3: A Prohibited Graphing Calculator

• Calculator Model: TI-84 Plus CE
• Graphing: Yes
• QWERTY Keyboard: No (standard number pad)
• Data Storage/Communication: Yes (USB connectivity, storage)
• Power/Card Slot: No (battery powered)
• Programmable: Yes (advanced programming)

Result: Likely NOT Allowed. The primary reason is that it is a graphing calculator. Additionally, its data storage and advanced programmability also disqualify it according to NCEES rules.

Example 4: A High-End Scientific Calculator

• Calculator Model: HP HP 35s
• Graphing: No
• QWERTY Keyboard: No
• Data Storage/Communication: No
• Power/Card Slot: No
• Programmable: Yes (Limited programming, considered acceptable by NCEES)

Result: Likely Allowed. While programmable, the HP 35s is considered to have capabilities within the acceptable limits for NCEES exams, making it a suitable choice for many.

How to Use This FE Exam Calculator Compliance Checker

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Using our calculator checker is straightforward and designed to give you quick insights:

1. Enter Calculator Model: Type the exact name or model number of your calculator in the first field. This helps in context, though the feature check is primary.
2. Answer Feature Questions: For each question, select "Yes" or "No" based on your calculator's capabilities. Be honest and accurate. Consult your calculator's manual if unsure.
3. Check Compliance: Click the "Check Compliance" button.
4. Review Results: The "Overall Status" will indicate if your calculator is "Likely Allowed" or "Likely NOT Allowed". The intermediate results provide a breakdown of why, highlighting specific prohibited features.
5. Understand the Formula: Read the "Formula Used" section for a plain-language explanation of the NCEES criteria.
6. Use the Chart: The bar chart visually breaks down the compliance status of each feature.
7. Copy Results: If needed, click "Copy Results" to save the summary information.
8. Reset: Use the "Reset" button to clear all fields and start over with a different calculator.

How to Read Results

• Likely Allowed: Your calculator meets the NCEES feature restrictions. It's advisable to still check the official NCEES list for confirmation.
• Likely NOT Allowed: Your calculator possesses one or more features that are prohibited. You will need to find an alternative, compliant calculator.

Decision-Making Guidance

If your calculator is flagged as "Likely NOT Allowed," do not risk bringing it to the exam. Instead, focus on acquiring a calculator that strictly adheres to the NCEES guidelines. The "Approved Calculator Models" table provides examples of commonly accepted calculators. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and choose a simpler, widely approved scientific model.

Key Factors That Affect FE Exam Calculator Results

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Several factors contribute to whether a calculator is deemed compliant for the FE Exam. Understanding these is key to making an informed choice:

1. Graphing Capabilities: This is the most significant disqualifier. Calculators that can plot functions (e.g., TI-83, TI-84 series, Casio Prizm) are universally prohibited.
2. QWERTY Keyboards: Any calculator featuring a full or partial QWERTY keyboard layout is not allowed. This prevents calculators from being used for extensive text entry or advanced programming.
3. Data Storage and Communication: Calculators that can store text, equations, programs, or transfer data via USB, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or infrared ports are forbidden. This ensures no pre-loaded answers or unfair data manipulation.
4. Programmability: While some calculators offer limited programming for basic sequences or constants (like the HP 35s), those allowing complex algorithms, simulations, or extensive formula storage are disallowed. NCEES focuses on calculators that perform standard mathematical and engineering functions, not act as mini-computers.
5. Power Source and Expansion: Calculators requiring AC power adapters or having slots for memory cards (like CompactFlash or SD cards) are prohibited. This is primarily for exam security and preventing external data access.
6. NCEES Official List: While the feature-based policy is the foundation, NCEES publishes an official list of approved models. It's crucial to cross-reference your calculator with this list, as NCEES has the final say. Sometimes, very obscure models or specific sub-versions might be ambiguous.
7. Exam Discipline: While the core calculator policy is consistent across FE exams, some resources might mistakenly suggest variations. Always rely on the official NCEES guidelines for all FE exams.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I bring my Casio fx-9750GIII?

A1: No, the Casio fx-9750GIII is a graphing calculator and is therefore not allowed on the FE exam.

Q2: What if my calculator has a solar power option? Is that okay?

A2: Yes, solar power is acceptable. The restriction is on AC power adapters or card slots, not basic battery or solar power sources.

Q3: My calculator can solve complex equations. Is that allowed?

A3: If "solving complex equations" refers to built-in numerical solvers or advanced symbolic manipulation beyond standard scientific functions, it might be disallowed. Simple equation solvers found on many scientific calculators are typically okay, but advanced features can be problematic.

Q4: Does NCEES approve calculators for specific exam disciplines (e.g., FE Civil vs. FE Mechanical)?

A4: The NCEES calculator policy applies consistently across all FE discipline exams. There are no different rules for different disciplines regarding calculator features.

Q5: Can I use a calculator app on my tablet or computer?

A5: No. Only approved physical calculators are permitted. Any device that can run applications, connect to the internet, or has communication features is prohibited.

Q6: What should I do if my calculator model is not listed on the NCEES website?

A6: If your calculator is not on the NCEES list but you believe it meets all the feature-based criteria (not graphing, no QWERTY, etc.), it's generally considered acceptable. However, to be absolutely safe, consider using a calculator that is explicitly listed or widely known to be approved, like the TI-30X IIS or Casio fx-115 ES PLUS.

Q7: Can I bring more than one calculator to the exam?

A7: Yes, you can bring more than one approved calculator. However, only one calculator can be used at a time, and it must be inspected by the proctor.

Q8: What happens if I bring a non-approved calculator?

A8: Bringing a non-approved calculator to the FE exam is a serious violation. Your exam may be invalidated, and you could face disciplinary action, including being banned from future exams.